A widespread heat wave continues to grip Western Europe, with scientists warning that the extreme temperatures would have been “virtually impossible” without human-driven climate change. A rapid analysis by the World Weather Attribution group found that such events are now up to 200 times more likely compared to conditions just two decades ago.

Human-induced climate change has intensified temperatures, making this year's record heat wave up to 4 degrees Celsius hotter.

Scientists say the latest findings underscore the urgency of both reducing emissions and adapting infrastructure to withstand more frequent and intense heatwaves in the years…